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thedrifter
03-06-09, 10:40 AM
Kinser Marines host exchange for Japanese officer candidates
Lance Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough

CAMP KINSER, Okinawa (March 6, 2009) -- Marines from Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, hosted 320 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force officer candidates during the Japanese Observer Exchange Program at the Camp Kinser Surfside Feb. 25.

The JOEP is a bilateral exchange program between the JGSDF and the U.S. Marine Corps. It provides an opportunity to improve cultural and professional interaction between the two services.

"The purpose of the exchange program is to help us develop a stronger relationship, exchange ideas, and build cultural awareness," said Lt. Col. Wayne Cox, operations officer for CLR-37.

During the event, officer candidates received briefs on the mission, structure, and capabilities of Okinawa-based units.

Although each brief was important, it was the small unit leadership brief by 1st Lt. Nathan Loomis, logistics officer for CLR-37, that was best received.

Loomis told candidates what they could expect as new officers, but also reminded them of expectations to be met.

"Your subordinates will expect you to be accountable," said Loomis. "As new officers, we make mistakes. The key is to accept responsibility for our mistakes and learn from them."

After the presentations, the JGSDF officer candidates observed Marines perform Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques and the Combat Fitness Test. They also viewed displays of weapons systems and military vehicles utilized by the Marine Corps.

In the end, the event showed the candidates how the Marine Corps operates and what support they provide Japan from bases on Okinawa, said Cox.

"The exchange was very informative," said Shinya Maruyama, a JGSDF officer candidate. "This information will be helpful when we conduct bilateral missions with the Marine Corps.

Ellie